A Traveler's Guide to Fall on Anna Maria Island

September

Early fall can still be pretty warm, with daytime temps averaging between 85° to 90°F. Nighttime temperatures start to cool down, ranging from 70° to 75°F. Humidity lingers during early fall and remains fairly high, but the levels begin to lower towards the end of the month.

October

Temperatures in October continue to lower, with average highs around 80° to 85°F and cooler evenings averaging between 65° to 70°F. Humidity continues to drop, making outdoor activities more enjoyable for everyone!

November

As Christmas looms, AMI begins to cool down, with daytime temperatures ranging from 75° to 80°F and nighttime lows around 60° to 65°F. November is full of crisp and clear days leading up to Thanksgiving with almost no rainfall.

Fall Activities on Anna Maria Island

One of the best things about a getaway during fall on Anna Maria Island is that the weather is still quite pleasant to spend a day at the beach. Manatee Public Beach is a popular spot with its soft sands, clear waters, and convenient amenities. For a more secluded experience, head to Bean Point at the northern tip of the island, known for its peace, quiet, and gorgeous views.

If you want to do something more active, you can rent a kayak from Beach Bums or take a guided tour with AMI Paddleboard Adventures and explore the island's waters.

Fishing is also excellent in the fall, with species like snook, redfish, and trout out in full force. Book a fishing charter with companies like AMI Charters or Anna Maria Fishing Adventures for an unforgettable day on the water, no matter your level of experience.

Care to spend some time in nature? Fall on AMI is a wonderful time to explore some of the nature preserves within a short drive. The scenic trails at  Robinson Preserve,  Leffis Key, and  Perico Preserve all offer a lush, quiet area to explore. With a combination of trails, paved roads, and boardwalks, you can easily traverse the different coastal habitats. Keep your eyes peeled to the trees if you want to see some beautiful bird species!

For a relatively small island, AMI has a burgeoning foodie scene and when it comes to ambiance, you can't beat waterfront restaurants like the Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the Pier or the Beach Bistro in Holmes Beach.

There are a number of dining options, with great restaurants scattered all over the island, all catering to different tastes. It's impossible to pick just one or two favorites, but our guide on the best AMI restaurants will give you more details on our favorite spots to grab a bite.

Participate in or watch local fishing tournaments such as the AMI Privateers' Whitey Horton Memorial Fishing Tournament. These events celebrate the island's incredible fishing culture and offer exciting opportunities for anglers of all levels.

Fall Festivals & Island Events on Anna Maria Island

Bayfest

Bayfest on Pine Avenue is sure to be a highlight of your fall vacation if you're here during this beloved October weekend. Enjoy live music, a classic car show, plus a variety of delicious food vendors. The kids' zone with fun activities makes  Bayfest perfect for the whole family.

Pumpkin Festival at Hunsader Farms

Halloween Trail of Treats

Each year, on October 31st, the Trail of Treats kicks off at the AMI Chamber of Commerce. This event encourages creativity in children's costumes and has a few fun contests to up the ante!

Packing Tips For Anna Maria Island in the Fall

Packing for a fall getaway is not much different than summer months – you'll just want to pack a few extra layers for cooler evenings.

• Layering: Bring light jackets and sweaters for the cooler mornings and evenings. A hoodie or even a cardigan can help to keep you warm and is easily removable if you get too hot.
• Beachwear: Don't forget your bathing suits and other beachwear for the warmer daytime temps. Or the flip flops!
• Cool Weather Wear: For the cooler nights, pack long pants, casual shirts, and a warm sweater or two. Any of your favorite fall litems would be beneficial to bring.
• Sun Protection: The sun can still be strong in the autumn months, so pack plenty of biodegradable sunscreen with a high SPF, hats, and sunglasses to protect your skin.
• Rain Gear: In early fall, we still see a bit of rainfall. Light rain gear such as an umbrella or a poncho/rain coat is helps to keep you dry during those sporadic showers.
• Binoculars: If you're into birdwatching, pack a pair of binoculars. You'll find a ton of different bird species on the island, and fall is a great time of year to spot them!
• Bug spray: Very useful, especially if you plan on spending time in nature preserves or during the evenings.

Is Fall in Anna Maria Island Right for You?

A very enthusiastic "Yes!". During the shoulder seasons, most destinations boast mild weather and fewer crowds; Anna Maria Island is no exception. The weather is near perfect, with daytime temps ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s with cooler evenings. The crowds are thinning out, and AMI has a quiet, laid-back vibe in the quiet lull between summer and winter. This means more space on the beaches and shorter wait times at restaurants!

Fall is full of fun seasonal events and festivals, like Bayfest and the Pumpkin Festival at Hunsader Farms. No matter if you're looking to laze about on a beach or explore some nature parks without working up a sweat, fall is a great time to visit Anna Maria Island.

Where to Stay on Your Fall Adventure on Anna Maria Island

Fall on Anna Maria Island is a fantastic time, combining perfect weather, fewer crowds, and a wide array of things to do and seasonal events. No matter what you plan to do while you're here, you've got to have a conveniently located and comfortable place to stay.

Get in touch with us at  Anna Maria Island Beach Rentals. We have vacation rentals in  Holmes Beach, Bradenton Beach, and  Longboat Key, giving you easy access to all of AMI. Come enjoy the quieter, more relaxed atmosphere of the off-peak season and enjoy the special events that make fall an interesting time to visit!